LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSE

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: The work involves the routine care in accordance with a detailed and well-defined mental health and/or medical care plan under direct supervision of a Registered Professional Nurse or higher level medical/nursing professional.  Assignments concerning an individual care are given specifically with limited leeway allowed for exercise of independent judgment.  Does related work, as required and assigned.

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES:

Performs therapeutic treatments such as administering medications in
     accordance with establishing departmental policy and procedures;
Assists in the implementation of the mental health treatment plan and
     follow through of plan;
Takes the temperature, notes the rate of pulse and respirations, takes
     blood pressure and observes and records other signs and symptoms
     as directed;
Observes changes in an individual’s physical and/or mental condition
     and takes appropriate action;
Collects specimens and assists in carrying out diagnostic procedures;
Assists in the admission and discharge tasks;
Effectively utilizes various equipment used in care of individuals as
     directed;
Performs other tasks designed to provide a suitable environment;
Documents findings as appropriate in hard copy and/or electronic
     health records;
Provides patient education regarding medication and diagnostic signs
     and symptoms;
Assists in prescribers’ scheduling by triaging clients
Works as a team member in promoting excellence in nursing
     standards;
May be assigned to work in various clinics;

The above examples of duties are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed.  The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES, AND/OR PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS: Working knowledge of nursing techniques and their relation to medical and surgical practices; working knowledge of facility sanitation including bloodborne pathogens and hygiene; ability to carry out therapeutic treatments prescribed; ability to understand and carry out exactly detailed oral and written instructions; ability to keep records and make reports both oral and written; ability to get along well with others; ability to work with a variety of population which may include geriatric, families and/or the mentally ill; cheerfulness; good moral character; patience; emotional stability; tact and courtesy; integrity; good judgment; empathetic attitude toward sick, dying, and/or mentally ill.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, bend, stoop, pull and push, use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; and reach with hands and arms.  The employee is required to walk, stand for long periods of time, talk and hear.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 75 pounds and position individuals as needed.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and the ability to adjust focus and visually observe residents.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The noise level in the work environment is moderately quiet.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Possession of a valid license issued by the State of New York to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse.

NOTE: Maintenance of license is required for continued employment.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT FOR APPOINTMENT AND CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT IN POSITIONS WHERE REQUIRED: Possession of a valid NYS Drivers license.